I’ve been eagerly awaiting the opening of Lucettegrace for the past few months and I’m happy to report the wait is now over! Chef Daniel Benjamin, the celebrated former pastry chef at the five-star Herons restaurant and Umstead Hotel in Cary has opened a contemporary patisserie in downtown Raleigh at 235 S. Salisbury Street and it is FANTASTIC!

Lucettegrace counter

The shop opened just over a month ago and I’ve already been by several times to check it out. I’ve been introduced to more wonderful pastry creations to behold and taste on each visit as the menu continues to grow. The word pastry really doesn’t really do justice to the baked goods sold at Lucettegrace. They are more like delicious edible works of art.

Seating

I also love the layout of the shop. The atmosphere is open and warm with a nice mix of old and new. The bright yellow stools lined up along the wood counter contrast well with the two toned hardwood floor and hanging lights against the exposed brick wall. Seating is plentiful with several tables in addition to the wrap around bar along the wall and the front of the shop has floor to ceiling windows making it the perfect place to sit with a coffee and croissant and watch the world go by.

Display Case

The front counter space is sleek and modern with a large glass case used to beautifully display the days offerings making is challenge to decide what to try among the field of amazing treats. So far I have tried several of the different types of croissants and eclairs. I am committed to slowly working my way through the menu of offerings. There are certain items that you can expect to find daily, while they also plan to regularly introduce new and seasonal items to keep the menu fresh and full of exciting items throughout the entire year.

Display Case

One of my favorite items is the Bourbon Pecan Pie croissant. It is so decadent and sweet. I think it is the perfect item to enjoy in the morning with coffee or later in the day after a meal as a dessert after a meal. Another popular item is the Dixie Cannonball which is filled with gravy! The shop serves organic locally roasted coffee from Larry’s Beans out of Raleigh. They offer a full menu of espresso drinks in addition to cold brew and traditional drip coffee. They also have a sipping caramel which I hear is incredible!

Bourbon Pecan Pie Croissant & Larry’s Beans Coffee

In addition to sweet treats, Lucettegrace has also just started offering asavory menu (available after 11am). I haven’t had a chance to try these new offerings but I am sure they are just as impressive as the pastries and I look forward to enjoying lunch there soon.

You can stay up to date on all of their current offerings by visiting their menu online.

Chef Daniel Benjamin hard at work in the kitchen

I believe Lucettegrace has hit a home run right from the start in terms of the menu, atmosphere, and service. I expect this beautiful little shop to become a popular destination for triangle foodies and out of town visitors alike. So whether you are looking for a fun place for a morning coffee & pastry, a delicious new lunch spot, or a special place for dessert on date night – I encourage you to pay them a visit. By the way, they will be OPEN on New Year’s Day 11am-7pm.